Second-round draft pick Vernon Macklin has appeared in just 19 games for the Detroit Pistons this season, averaging less than five minutes in those appearances.

With Charlie Villanueva returning from injury, the team opted to deploy Macklin to its D-League affiliate, the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, to provide the rookie with an opportunity for some quality playing time.

Macklin made his D-League debut on Thursday, and had an immediate impact as the starting center for the Mad Ants. In the team's 95-83 loss to the Erie Bayhawks, he played 38 minute, scoring 18 points (8-14 shooting), pulling down 18 rebounds and blocking four shots.

Macklin got off to a quick start, throwing down an alley-oop on a pass from guard Anthony Goods on the team's first possession. He finished the first half with 12 points and 14 rebounds (seven offensive).

The Mad Ants have nine games remaining on their schedule, which will provide Macklin several additional opportunities to impress. The D-League also has a three-round playoff, but Fort Wayne has already been eliminated from contention with an 11-30 record.